Plizio Visual Lab

Fimmvörðuháls

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Landmark

Weather…

Fimmvörðuháls is a high mountain pass in southern Iceland, situated between the Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull glaciers. Standing at an elevation of approximately 1,100 meters, it is a key section of one of the country's most popular hiking trails, connecting Skógar to the Þórsmörk valley. The pass gained international fame in March 2010 when a volcanic eruption occurred there, immediately preceding the major eruption of Eyjafjallajökull. During this event, two new craters were formed, named Magni and Móði after the sons of the Norse god Thor. The area is geologically very young and is characterized by fresh lava fields that can emit residual heat for years after the eruption. The trail across the pass features spectacular views of more than 20 waterfalls along the Skógá river, leading it to be frequently called the "Waterfall Way." Weather conditions on Fimmvörðuháls are notoriously volatile and can shift dramatically within minutes, even during the summer months. Geologists utilize the pass as a natural laboratory to study the formation of new landmasses and the cooling behavior of lava flows. Despite the physical challenges, the pass remains a magnet for adventurers seeking to experience the raw power of Icelandic nature firsthand.

Location: Iceland
Nearby: Þórsmörk (6 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	0	0	0	2	4	8	9	9	7	4	1	0
Rain mm	293	268	258	194	136	128	151	176	263	250	250	291

📋 Practical info

🚪

Visiting

Fimmvörðuháls is a challenging mountain pass between the Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull glaciers. Access is on foot only, and the route is only passable in summer months under good conditions.

🕒

Typical hours

As a high mountain pass, there are no opening hours; accessibility depends entirely on weather and season. Typically, the route is passable from June to August, but snow patches may linger into July.

📷

Photography

Photography is allowed along the entire route; the new craters from 2010 and glacier views are spectacular. A wide-angle lens is good for the vast landscapes, but be careful on slippery terrain.

⏱️

Time needed

The full crossing from Skógar to Þórsmörk takes 8-10 hours depending on pace. Most hikers split the trek and overnight at the hut on the pass.

➕

Combine with

Combine Fimmvörðuháls with a visit to Skógafoss waterfall at the starting point. From Þórsmörk, you can take further hikes into the glacial river valley.

🧭

Getting there

The starting point Skógar is reachable by car on the Ring Road (Route 1). For return from Þórsmörk, you need a 4x4 vehicle or bus; arrange pickup in advance.

💡

Insider tip

Book a spot in the hut on the pass well in advance, as it fills up quickly in high season. Pack weatherproof gear and plenty of food for a long day.